SAP ABAP: How to Create String Data Elements (STRING, CHAR)

Creating a Data Element for Strings in SAP ABAP

A Data Element in SAP ABAP defines the type and semantics of a field. If you want to create a string-based Data Element, follow these steps:

1. Creating a Data Element for a String

Method 1: Using STRING as Data Type

1. Open SAP GUI → Go to Transaction SE11.
2. Select Data Element and click Create.
3. Enter a name (e.g., ZSTRING_DEMO).
4. In the Data Type field, enter STRING.
5. Provide a Short Description (e.g., “Custom String Data Element”).
6. Save, activate, and use it in tables or structures.

💡 When to use?

• When you need an unstructured variable-length string.

Method 2: Using CHAR with Fixed Length

1. Follow Steps 1-3 above.
2. In the Data Type section:

• Set Domain to CHAR (Character).
• Set Length (e.g., 100).

3. Save, activate, and use it.

💡 When to use?

• If you need fixed-length text (e.g., Names, Codes).

2. Using the Data Element in a Table

Once created, you can use the Data Element in a transparent table:

TABLES: ztable.

DATA: lv_text TYPE zstring_demo.
lv_text = 'Hello ABAP'.
WRITE: lv_text.

3. Alternative: Using Domain for More Control

• If you need input restrictions (e.g., only uppercase), create a Domain in SE11 and assign it to the Data Element.